GV 1177 
.W87 
Copy 1 




A M E R IC A 1^ 



SHARP SHOOTER. 



AMERICAN SHARP-SHOOTER: 

A TREATISE ON GUNNERY, 

ILLUSTRATING THE 

PRACTICAL USE OF THE TELESCOPE AS A SiaHT, 

AS APPLICABLE TO THE RIFLE, RIFLE 

BATTERl^, ARTILLERY, &C., 

DEMONSTRATING 

HOW TO SIGHT A GUN— -HOW TO ASCERTAIN TH3 FALL OF THE BALL 

FOR ALL DISTANCES— HOW TO GET ELEVATION WITHOUT 

CHANGE OF SIGHT— HOW TO MEASURE 

DI3TAJ;CES BY THE TELESCOPE, 

DEFINING 

Certain rules by which to strike the object &very shot, including 

other useful information for the instruction 

of the gunner. 




'jBir hd^a-zntiexj "v^oood. 



ROCHESTER : 

CURTIS, BUTTS & CO., PRINTERS, BUFFALO STREET. 
1862. 



" No 



.Wsv 



Entered according to Act of Congress in the year 1862, by 

in the Clerk's office of the District Court of the United States for 
the Northern District of New York. 

Z 1 -^^ 1 ^ 



TO THE 

AMERICAN GOVERNMENT, 




AS ILLUSTRATED IN THE FOLLOWING SENTIMENT OF THE 

LIBERTY AND UNION, NOW AND FOREVER, ONE AND 
INSEPARABLE." 

BY THE AUTHOR. 



PEEFACE. 



The time has arrived in our country's history, when 
every person of suitable age should at once acquaint 
himself with the use of military weapons, in order 
to enable him to act well his part in the great drama 
of rebellion, which now threatens a dissolution of 
our sacred and glorious Union. A new era in the 
art of " gunnery " has dawned upon us. The writer, 
having for some time observed the deficiency that 
exists in the United States Army in the practical 
and effective use of fire-arms, has in the following 
pages endeavored,to impart some useful information 
upon this subject. Every person, whether he be a 
military man cr a civilian, should possess himself of 
this knowledge at once. To be a "good shot" re- 
quires a steady nerve, clear vision, and a correct 
knowledge of range, elevation and distance, and fa. 
miliarity with his piece. A scienced gunner, whether 
he operates heavy ordnance, artillery, rifle battery, 
er a rifle, should be able to strike his object every shot. 
Even the unerring aim of the skilful " sharp-shooter'* 
would miss " his mark," unless he is fully posted in 
these rules. How many shots are made without 



8 

effect to one that liits ? In the army a large majority 
of the soldiers are inexperienced in, and not familiar 
with, the use of fire-arms, and hence too many ran- 
dom shots are fired, without striking the object in- 
tended. It is all important, both in land and naval 
warfare, that ever'i/ shot sliould tell. By perusing the 
sequel, the reader will understand the secret of this 
success, and thereby acquire a knowledge of the 
77ipdus operandi of accomplishing this much desired 
result. 



Rochester, JST. Y., 
November, 1862. 



:} 



INTEODUCTION. 



In this age of rebellion against the majesty of the 
American Government, the belligerent spirit of the 
people is naturally aroused to tlie subject of self-pr©- 
tection. 

A grave attempt is being made to subvert a gov- 
ernment republican in form and democratic in prin- 
ciple, which, by a practical experience of over eighty- 
six years, has proved to be the most perfect, expedi- 
ent and beneficiary, of any ever instituted on the 
face of the globe. It guarantees alike all rights of 
the citizen and of property — encourages and protects 
all departments of the arts and sciences — of agricul- 
ture — and, in fact, all other legitimate pursuits of 
its subjects, both domestic and foreign. 

In such a crisis, the inventive genius of the country 
is necessarily brought into requisition to discover 
the most efficient and destructive enginery and im- 
plements of warfare, for the puipose of subduing and 
terminating this most unnatural and unholy resist- 
ance to the lawful authority of the government, in 
the shortest practicable period. 



10 

And inasmuch as our unscrupulous enemies have . 
resorted to the force of arms, the arbitrament of mil- 
itary power, to carry out their nefarious project, the 
people of the loyal States by the pressure of circum- 
stances are compelled, as the last alternative, to resort 
to the same extreme means of warfare, in self-defence, 
as well as to reassert the power of the Federal Gov- 
ernment over all its extended dominions. 

The suppression of this arrogant rebellion must 
and shall be accomplished, and all the legitimate 
prerogatives of the Federal Government should be 
speedily and powerfully exerted for that purpose, 
and such a lesson taught to all traitors, that a like 
experiment will never again be attempted. 

The object of these articles is more particularly 
directed to one branch of the military service of the 
country — to illustrate the practical and effective use 
of fire arms — such as artillery, rifle batteries, <fec., 
having reference more particularly to the Telescopic 
Rifle, and especially to the use of the Telescope, as 
a sight f in measuring distances and ascertaining eleva- 
tions. 

The subject of "gunnery" and of "projectiles," 
has, of course, engaged the attention of the scientific 
military men of all ages and countries, but there are 
many points of very great importance, although 
simple, which, to the knowledge of the writer, have 
not been fully or clearly developed, or put mio prac- 
tical use. 



11 

Our aim is to present a few useful lessons and rules 
for the benefit and guidance of the ^'gunner/' whether 
he operates a ** telescopic rifle," rifle battery, cannon, 
or guns of larger calibre, and whether at short or 
long range. 

Among the qualifications of a skilful, accurate and 
effective " gunner," we would name the following: 

1st. A keen eye, quick perception, and steady 
nerve. 

2d, A good judge of distances, both horizontal, 
perpendicular, and longitudinal. 

3d. A correct idea of the size of objects by com- 
parison or otherwise, both longitudinal, latitudinal, 
and altitudinal ; a practical knowledge of the use 
and objects of the Telescope and Telescopic Sight, in 
measuring distances, (fee. 

6th. How to sight a gun readily and accurately. 

6th. An actual experimental knowledge of the fall 
of the ball for all distances. 

The rapid fall of the ball in gunnery at different 
distances, and 'especially at long ranges, is a great 
impediment to be overcome, and it requires much 
judgment, calculation, and experiment. We now 
allude to perpendicular range. So also the eftect of 
the atmosphere, wind, &c., on the ball while in mo- 
tion, which we call horizontal range, requires prac- 
tice, skill, and care, to calculate correctly. 

Hence no gunner can strike an object without first 
knowing the distance, and the elevation required, and 



12 

a proper calculation for the effects of the atmosphere 
oa the projectile. 

No person can be said to be a good gunner, or 
should go into the army, especially with a Telescopic 
Rifle, without first ascertaining by actual experiment, 
the fall of his ball for every point of distance, from 
the shortest to the longest range. For instance, at 
10, 40, 80, 100, 160, rods, up to any required dis- 
tance. The result of these experiments should be 
noted down, or committed to memory, so that no 
errors should occur. 

For target shooting you should ascertain the fall 
of the ball for every five rods. 

Having settled this, the next and equally important 
thing to be ascertained is the distance, in order to 
get a correct elevation. 

This will be explained in a subsequent article. 
(Article 4.) 

We propose to illustrate our subject in the follow- 
ing articles, having reference to the use of the ordi- 
nary Telescopic Sight, which shows the object in its 
natural position, and not inverted. 

Article 1. — The Telescopic Sight. Its use and su- 
perior advantages. 

Article 2. — How to Sight a gun. Calculations for 
the wind. How to ascertain the fall of the ball 
for different distances. Target practice, (fee. 



13 

Article 8. — Importance of numerous cross-hairs. 
How to get elevation without changing the sight, 
and without either raising or lowering the Tel- 
escope. 

Article 4. — How to measure or calculate distances 
by means of the Telescope. 

Article 5, — Practical observations. Gener il use of 
the Telescope as a distance glass, as applicable to 
Artillery, Rifle Batteries, <fec. 

In our observations upon these topics it is not our 
intention to present a labored treatise on the science 
of "gunnery" in general, which would require too 
much time and space fully to develop, a work which 
we may at some future period undertake, should 
occasion and circumstances warrant. But for the 
present, we shall content ourselves with such lessons, 
rules and suggestions in the premises as occur to us 
to be of immense practical use a?id i'mportance to 
every person, whether he be a soldier, officer or pri- 
vate, or a civilian. It is suggested that at all times, 
whether in peace or vjar, it is the duty of every citi- 
zen to study and familiarize himself with the use of 
fire arms; not only for self defence, but to be ready 
for any and every emergency that might arise. But 
especially in time of war every man in the public 
service, whether officer or private, should at once be 
thoroughly posted in the art of gunneiy, so that 
every shot will tell. That he shoots to kill. 



14 

"No soldier can b^ said to be a perfect gunner, or 
should claim the appellation of " sharp-shooter," un- 
less he can hit his mark the first shot, whatever the 
^ distance may be, within the random or range of his 
gun. Every army officer should understand and be- 
come familiar with this subject, and every private 
should be drilled in this respect as much as in any 
other branch of military tactics. 

Every soldier knows how to load and fire a gun. 
Is this all he is required to know ? Of all the shots 
fired, does one in a thousand hit the object aimed at ? 

With these introductory remarks we will now pro- 
ceed to point out to you certain rules and regulations 
by which this can be done with approximate cer- 
tainty every shot. 



ARTICLE 1. 

The Telescopic Sight—Its Use and Advantages. 

Among the practical benefits gained by the use of 
the Telescope are, that the objects to be seen are more 
clearly presented to the view by the magnifying 
power of the lenses used. Its superiority, like other 
optical instruments, is most apparent at long ranges 
when the object cannot be distinctly discernable by 
the naked eye, Ko sight ever invented in gunnery 
affords more pleasure, satisfaction and accuracy, 
either for hunting game, target practice, or " rebel 
shooting," than the "Telescopic." The more it is 
used and understood, the more it will be appreciated 
and come into general practice. 

Experience will demonstrate that more care and 
per'ection is necessary in the construction of these 
instruments, and of the manner of their attacliment 
to the gun. They should be so firmly and securely 
fastened that no errors or variations arise from this 
cause. 

The common mode of lowering or elevating this 
sight for different distances has been by means of a 
thumb-screw near the eye glass, intended to be ex- 
actly perpendicular, to be turned up or down, as 
occasion may require. Another mode is, that instead 



16 

of the screw, a piston, or straight rod of iron or steel, 
is used to move up and down in a perpendicular line, 
held or adjusted by a small thumb-screw at the side. 

But in all these modes of fastenings there are more 
or less errors and variations, so that perfect accuracy 
cannot be attained. It is almost impossible to make 
this screw or piston rod exactly plumb, and if it is 
not, the turning up or down will cause a deviation of 
the telescope to the right or left of perpendicular, 
and hence the line of vision through the glass would 
be varied accordingly. 

To avoid these errors and irregularities, as well as 
the time and trouble necessary to turn up or down 
lor every designated distance, the writer has substi- 
tuted a new method of elevation, without the " turn- 
ing or raising up " process, which will be explained 
in Article 3. 

We would recommend another improvement which 
is of much practical benefit and advantage. The 
tube of the telescope should not extend to, nor with, 
in five or six inches of, the muzzle of the gun. In 
this way you can handle the gun at the muzzle more 
easily, attended with greater convenience in the pro- 
cess of loading and wiping out, and besides you will 
not be so likely to hazard the breaking of the object 
glass of your telescope, as you otherwise would, nor 
would the smoke from the discharge of the gun be 
so apt to obscure the glass. 

As to the length or size of the Telescope, much 



11 



would depend upon the particular use intended. For 
long distances, and, indeed, for the purposes of ele- 
vation, a large field of vision is desirable. The ob- 
jects would appear more clear and distinct. The or- 
dinary diameter of the tube is from four to seven- 
eighths of an inch. We would recommend for army 
guns a Telescopic tube of about one inch in diam- 
eter to the exterior circumference, leaving about 
seven-eighths of an inch for the diameter of the in- 
ternal circumference, as guns of this description are 
generally of heavier calibre than the common rifle. 
In the ordinary Telescope but two hairs are used, 
attached to a circle or frame inserted in the tube of 
the telescope at the focal distance of the eye glass,, 
crossing each other at right angles, one perpendicu- 
lar and the other horizontal, as illustrated by the 
following diagram, which is intended to be about 
seven-eighths of an inch in diameter. 




In sighting, the point at which these hairs cross 
each other, is to be placed upon the centre of the 



18 

object aimed at, and in all cases great care and cau- 
tion should be exercised in holding the piece firm 
and steady, and in obtaining a clear and perfect vis- 
ion, and for this purpose the eye should be placed as 
near as practicable to the eye-glass. 

It should be observed that these cross hairs should 
be very fine; the finer the better, (as they are en- 
larged in proportion to the magnifying power of the 
glasses used,) so that they will tend less to obstruct 
the vision, or to conceal the object aimed at, and 
will enable the gunner to draw a closer sight. 

But in the military service the telescope becomes 
still more useful, and is indispensable. The magni- 
fying or microscopic power of the instrument depends 
upon the distance at which the objects are viewed. 
Their importance is illustrated in viewing the 
enemy^s works, such as forts, arsenals, fortifications, 
breast-works, position and movement of their men 
and guns, their war vessels and armament, and how 
manned, in examining at a distance the surface of 
the country, the kind and number of the enemy's 
forces, such as militia, cavalry, artillery batteries, 
(fee, and to distinguish oflacers from privates. 

Thus it will be seen that the telescope becomes an 
important optical instrument, not only as a sight, 
hut as afield or distance glass. 

Its usefulness is not confined to the rifle and the 
sharp shooter, but may be applied with equal force to 
the rifle battery, artillery, and the gunner generally. 



19 

Its superior advantages will more clearly appear 
in the succeeding articles. 

/ 

ARTICLE 2. 

How to Sight a gun — Calculations for the wind — Hov) 

to ascertain the fall of the hall for different 

distances — Target Practice, (kc. 



How to Sight a gun — Calculations for the wind, <!tc. 
To this first proposition no explanation seems to 
be required. Its solution appears so simple that one 
would say at once, that any person who ever shot a 
gun, ought to know how to do this. So he does, in 
the old fashioned way, by a long process of trial 
shots. But how many shots would it require, and 
how long would it take him ? Suppose the first shot 
you make should hit a foot over or two feet under the 
centre of the target, how much would you have to 
turn up or down to strike the centre ? Have you 
any rule for your guide, or can you ascertain other- 
wise than by repeated experimental shots until you 
strike the centre ? This is all random work ; you 
may do it in five, or it might require ten shots. 

Now, the writer proposes to give you a certain rule 
by which you can do it the second shot. We say sec- 
ond shot, because it is necessary in all cases to make 
one shot first in order to ascertain where your rifle 
carries. Knowing this, you can, the second shot, 



20 



strike the centre of the target, or a line horizontal 
with.it. 

"We are now speaking of sighting the gun for per- 
pendicular range — that is, up and down — and not 
horizontal, or right and left. 

Illustration. 




In this diagram A represents the target, which you 
wish to hit. Suppose you aim at the centre of the 



n 

target and your first ball strikes at (a,) say a foot in a 
direct line under. After this shot you will then look 
through your telescope at the target, and you will 
see the target and the ball hole of the first shot. But 
if the distance is so great that the magnifying power 
of your glasses does not enable you to see the ball 
hole distinctly, that, then some object easily discerni- 
ble, such as a red wafer, or other colored substance 
of suitable size, should be placed over the ball hole. 
You will then sight on the centre of the target, and 
hold the gun firm and immovable while you turn up 
until the cross-hairs centre the ball hole (a) below. 
By this process of elevation you perceive you have 
raised the ball up just as much as it fell under before, 
or in other words you have brought your line of 
sight and baU hole together, (a point at which the 
line of sight and tragectile meet, and which is called 
the point blank range,) and your next shot sighted 
on the target must strike the centre, providing there 
is no error in your calculations and your vision ac^ 
curate. 

Again, suppose your first shot strikes at letter (6,) 
six inches above and to the right of the centrer of the 
target, you will then, as before, sight on the target, 
and hold the gun firm and stationary while you turn 
down until the cross-hairs centre the upper ball hole, 
and your next shot sighted on the target will of 
course strike at (c,) on a horizontal line with the centre 
of the target, on account of the horizontal range not 
being correct. 



22 

By this simple process you have acquired your per- 
pendicular range, as you see, in two shots, and with 
perfect accuracy 

The next step is to get your horizontal range. 
This you must do by moving your sight either to the 
right or left, as occasion may require ; or you can 
wtake a calculation by the glass by aiming the same 
distance to the right or left, as the case may be. 

For instance, suppose your ball strikes at {a^ which 
is three inches to the right of the target, you can aim 
three inches to the left, at (c?,) and you will strike the 
centre, the same as though you had changed your 
sight accordingly. 

As a general rule, in respect to horizontal range, 
the safest way is to sight your gun ill a still, clear 
day, when there is no wind to vary the ball, anil 
then continue the same permanently, or have your 
sight marked when correctly adjusted, and not change 
it for the purpose of attempting to counteract the 
effects of the wind. The wind is a very uncertain 
element to contend with. At one moment it is furi- 
ous, at another moderate, and then a calm ; so that 
to keep apace with its fluctuations you would be com- 
pelled, in this way, to keep changing your sight con- 
tinually, and then you would gain but an approximate 
accuracy. 

On the other hand, by the mode first suggested you 
can with more ease and certainty accomplish the 
same result, for by the glass you can always, on short 



23 

range, see your last shot, and from that you can 
readily calculate for the next, better and more cor- 
rectly, than by the delay and trouble of changing 
your sight to meet the momentary shifting of the 
wind. 

To illustrate, suppose the wind varies the ball six 
inches to the right, now, as you can see the ball hole 
and the target, you can easily, if the wind is the 
same, aim six inches to the left, and then you would 
strike the target the next shot. 

We venture to say that you cannot in one chance 
in ten, so change your sight at one experiment as to 
accomplish the same result. In case you succeed, 
when the wind has subsided you must change back 
again, and then you may not adjust it exactly as it 
was when you began. 

So it will readily be perceived, that this perpetual 
alteration of sights for any purpose will continually 
involve you in uncertainty, and is of doubtful prac- 
tice. 

We will now turn our attention to the proposition: 

How to ascertain the fall of the hall for different dis- 
tances — Target practice, doc. 

To illustrate this we propose the following target : 



24 



10 rods. 



20 rods. 



25 rods. 




""■ 

© .la 



30 rods. 







12 in. 



35 rods. 







18 in. 



40 rods. \fj 



80 in. 



25 

It must be borne in mind that in these experiments 
the gunner must use the same gun, sight, charge of 
powder, ball and patch. 

In the first place you must sight your gun accu- ' 
rately at the target, Ay at short distance, say ten 
rods. You will then put your target off at twenty 
rods, and fire at same target witli same sight as be- 
fore, and the result will be your ball will strike at (a,) or 
about three inches below. Then at 26 rods, and so 
on for any required distance, and the result will be 
about as above indicated up to 40 rods, depending, 
of course, upon the calibre of the gun, weight and 
size of ball, and charge of powder used, viz ; 



At 20 


rods the ball falls about 


3 inches. 


" 25 


<( 


(( 


. 6 


(( 


** 30 


u 


i( 


12 


it 


" 35 


u 


<* 


- 18 


ft 


" 40 


u 


tt 


- 30 


it 


•* 50 


u 


ct 


- 4ft. 8 


tt 


'* 60 


ft 


<€ 


7 ft. 8 


« 


'* TO 


(t 


(t 


. 12 ft. 




" 80 


it 


/ <' 


18 ft. 





The implements used in these trials was a rifle, 
with a barrel weighing eight pounds and 29 inches 
in length, with a conical ball weighing 65 to the 
pound, and Hazard's Ko. 1 F powder, with 2^ inches 
of bore of the gun to the charge, and at rest, with 
telescopic sight. 



26 

In target practice the best form of target the wri- 
ter has discovered is a paste-board with white sur- 
face, with a red centre, such as a red wafer, size from 
1 to 3 inches, depending upon the distance, clearness 
of atmosphere and distinctness of vision. The paste- 
board is preferred for its adhesive properties, because 
the ball, in perforating it, does not tear the surface, 
but makes a hole just the size of the ball, and the 
same can more readily be seen by the glass. The 
red or wafer centre is selected because while it can 
be clearly seen, in case a ball penetrates it, it can be 
more readily discovered through the glass than any 
other color, and thereby avoids the necessit}^ of ex- 
amining the target at each shot. 

In order to make a close, even string, many nice 
points are to be observed : 

1st. The target should be placed as near as practi- 
cable in range of the wind, (if any,) and not cross- 
ways, if you desire to avoid as far as possible the effect 
of the wind upon the ball. You should also shoot in a 
direction from the sun, as by this course the target 
and ball holes can be more readly seen, and, besides, 
the reflection of the sun will not dazzle or obscure 
your vision through the telescope. 

2d. Great firmness and steadiness in holding the 
gun, (which should always be held in the same posi- 
tion, plumb, determinable by range through either 
your horizontal or perpendicular hair,) and a clear 
sight, are required. 



27 

3d. The gun should be wiped out each shot. 

4th. The weight and kind of ball, and charge of 
powder and patch, should be the same each shot. 

5th. In case there is any wind, particular care 
should be exercised in making calculations for the 
horizontal variation of the ball. 

In order to carry out these suggestions to a prac- 
tical and satisfactory result, extreme vigilance and 
caution is necessary, and your gun in all its parts, 
with all its fixtures and appendages, should be aa 
perfect as modern improvements would indicate. 

In target practice ten consecutive shots are usually 
called " a string." The result is ascertained in this 
way: Measure from the centre of the target to the 
centre of each ball hole or shot, and the aggregate of 
the whole ten shots will be the measurement of the 
string. And the same rule of measurement applies 
to a string of any greater or less number of shots. 

To make a good string the greatest precision is 
necessary. Beware of wild shots, for one roving 
shot may count more than the whole remaining nine, 
and lose you the string. Close and even shooting is 
the best evidence of a good marksman. 

But in case your telescope is attached so as to be 
moved horizontally by a thumb-screw, then you can 
get you^* horizontal range by observing the target and 
ball liole, in the same manner as above described for 
perpendicular range. 



28 



ARTICLE 3. 
Importance of numerous cross-hairs — How to get ele 
vation without changing the sight, and with- 
out either raising or lowering the telescope. 




By reference to the above diagram it will be seen 
that eight horizontal cross-hairs parallel to each other 
at different distances, are inserted. These hairs, as 
before mentioned, are attached to a frame located 
within the tube of the telescope, next in front, and 
at the focal distance of, the eye glass. The number 
to be used may be more or less, as experience may 
dictate tt be of the most practical benefit. 

For the purposes of illustration we shall call them 
" distance hairs," numbering from the top d*wn, 1, 
2, 3, (fee. These hairs are intended to represent the 
fall of the ball at different distances, and should be 



29 

so arranged as to be in exact ratio with and to cor- 
respond to it. For instance : 

N"o. 1 is intended for short range, say - 10 rods, 

u 2 " " " - * 20 ** 

« 3 " " '* 30 " 

ct ^ ii u u ^ - 40 *' 

"5 « « " . 50 ** 

« 6 " " « ^ - 60 " 

<» t7 it <( U ^ ^A it 

u g u ii u . ,. go a 

Th« numbers, as you see, correspond with the 
figures representing the distances, so as to be the 
more readily remembered. You will, of course, first 
sight your gun accurately for the short distance, say 
ten rods, by the upper cross-hair, No. 1. This done, 
your gun will then be sighted for all distances indi- 
cated by the several cross-hairs : No. 2 for 20 rods, 
Ko. 3 for 30 rods, &c., up to 80 rods, without any 
alteration or elevation of your telescope. 

By this means of elevation you avoid the errors 
consequent upon the turning up process. I have only 
intended to illustrate the principle, and the arrange- 
ment of the cross-hairs, as above indicated, is for short 
ranges. In case you desired to shoot at longer 
ranges, you can do it in three ways. 

1st. By arranging your cross hairs farther apart. 

2d. By turning up for any distance beyond eighty 
rods. 



30 

8d. By using the cross-hairs as arranged above, in 
this manner: Sight your gun by the upper hair at 
40 rods instead of 10, and then your elevation will 
be for different distances, about as follows : 2d hair, 
60 rods; 8 d hair, 60 rods; 4th hair, 10 rods; 5th 
hair, 80 rods ; 6th hair, 90 rods; 1th. hair, 100 rods ; 
8th hair, 110 rods. Or you may have to alternate 
or skip a hair at extreme distances. Or you can 
sight your upper hair at 80 rods, and the same ratio 
of elevation for different distances beyond that will 
follow, as graduated by the separate distance haira 
below. 

This process ot elevation is simple and yet accu- 
rate. All that is required is to become familiar with 
it hy practice. This knowledge once acquired, you 
will have no difficulty in ascertaining your elevation 
at once, and with unerring accuracy. This, of course, 
has reference solely to perpendicular range. You 
must calculate for a variation of the ball by the wind, 
<fec., in respect to horizontal range, as hereinbefore 
mentioned. 

It will be observed that these hairs are not equi- 
distant from each other. The reason is obvious. 
The path of the ball in motion as it is discharged 
from the gun forms the line of a parabola ; the far- 
ther the ball is projected, the more rapid it inclines 
downward by the force of gravitation, and in an in- 
verse ratio to the distance it travels, until it strikes 
some object or its force is spent. 



31 



As thoao hairs are intended to represent the fall of 
the ball at different distances, and as the ball falls 
faster the farther it goes, the lower hairs answering 
the longer ranges, must, consequently, be farther 
apart, as illustrated in the diagram heading this ar- 
ticle. 

In order to ascertain the correct location of these 
horizontal distance hairs, and the space that should 
separate them from each other, the following test may 
be resorted to : 

Take for illustration the target referred to in Ar* 
tide 2, (page 24.) Sight your upper cross-hair (No. 1) 
on the centre of this target, and, holding it there at 
rest, you will then examine through your telescope the 
separate ball holes of your shots at the different dis- 
tances, and see if the several corresponding distance 
hairs cover the ball holes represented by them. If 
they do, then they are correct. If not, you will note 
what variation is required, so that they can be ad- 
justed accordingly. 

But suppose these cross-hairs are not arranged in 
exact accordance with the several distances they are 
intended respectively to represent. We will point 
out another interesting rule to guide you in sighting, 
upon which it will be well to practice in order to fa- 
miliarize yourself with the use of the telescope, so 
that you can acquire the art of getting sight and 
range with celerity. 

Assume, now, that you put up a mark at any im- 
aginable distance, and fire at the centre, sighting 



32 



through the upper hair. You will then observe the 
ball hole, and ascertain the cross-hair on or nearest 
to it> and at the next shot you will sight on the tar- 
get through the cross-hair which appeared to be 
«t or in nearest proximity to the ball hole of the first 
shot. In case neither cross-hair comes in exact range 
with the ball hole of the prior shot, you can sight by 
the cross-hair nearest to it on the mark, making your 
calculations for what variation there maybe, whether 
above or below. This will subserve all practical pur^ 
poses, such as shooting game, or large objects, except, 
perhaps, you desire to make a close and even target 
string. 

As alluded to in our introductory remarks, the 
above arrangement of the cross or distance hairs, has 
reference to a telescope which reflects the objects in 
their natural position, and not inverted. Should a 
telescope be used which inverts the objects, the ar- 
rangement of the distance-hairs, instead of the above 
form, should be reversed or inverted. For example, 
No. 1 should be at the bottom, running^ up to No. 8 
at the top. In the latter case, you sight through 
your lower hair (No. 1) for the short distance, 10 rods, 
and No. 2 for 20 rods, and so on up to 80 rods. 



33 



ARTICLE 4. 
Hoio to measure or calculate distances by 7neans of the 
telescope. 
To illustrate this proposition we shall have occa- 
sion to refer again to the following diagram : 




"We assume the cross-hairs to be arranged in this 
form, as they can be used for a t\yo-fold purpose, viz: 
The first for a ten rod sight and the second for twenty- 
rods, and the two together as a means of measuring 
or ascertaining distances. 

Let us now call your ''attention to cross-hairs ]^os. 
1 and 2. On looking through your telescope at an 
object or a target at 10 rods distant you will observe 
the space intervening between the delineation these 
two hairs make as they strike the object. You will 
find it will be 1^ inches. Then put your object off 
20 rods, and you will find the space, on looking thro* 
your glass, to be 3 inches ; and for other distances 
up to one mile, as designated in the following 



34 



Table. 
Showing the space between these cross-hairs as 
they strike the object as it appears through the tele- 
scope, ^or every ten rods up to 320 rods, or one mile, 
viz: 

Spaces. Distances, 

li inches, , . . , 10 rods. 

3 '' 20 '' 

li '' 30 " 

6 '' ... 40 '' 

H " 50 *' 

9 " 60 " 

lOi " '70 « 

12 '' 80 « 

13i- '' 90 '* 

15 " 100 " 

l^ " 110 " 

18 " 120 " 

19i " 130 " 

21 '' 140 " 

22i '' 150 " 

24 " ., 160 " 

25i ** .170 ^• 

27 '' 180 " 

28i " 190 " 

30 '' 200 " 

31i '' 210 " 

33 '' ' 220 " 

34^ " 230 " 



35 



Spaces, Distances. 
36 inches, 240 rods. 

m 



42 

43i 

45 

46i- 
48 



.250 
.260 
.2^70 
.280 
290 
.300 
.310 
.320 



and the same exact ratio or proportion for any de- 
sired distance within the optical range of your tele- 
scope. 

From this it will be seen that the apparent open- 
ing or space between these hairs in their demarka- 
tion npon the object is extended just 1^ inches for 
every ten rods of elongated distance. 

Observe, also, as an optical and geometrical truth, 
that whatever distance these hairs are apart, as they 
appear on the object, at say ten rods, whether 1, 2, 
or 3 inches, depending upon the proximit*^ of the 
hairs to each other, they will exhibit the same pro- 
portion at any other distance at which the object can 
be seen, as the range of vision through these hairs 
diverge in straight lines forming an angle at the eye. 
Any person can test the correctness of this by his ow^n 
telescope, arranged as herein indicated, with a very 
little observation and practice. 



36 

Having first ascertained the optical range of these 
two hairs, as here proposed, accurately for differout 
distances, and determined the exact spaces between 
them as they appear on the object every separate 
and distinct distance, the next question to be solved 
is, how is this to be applied in measuring or deter- 
mining the horizontal space between you and the ob- 
ject in view. 

This proposition we will now proceed to demon- 
strate. In the first place you should, by measure- 
ment and comparison, practically familiarize yourself 
with the size of difi'erent objects, as, for instance, the 
size of the head or body of a man, horse, ox, cow, 
dog, cat, or other animals ; the height or diameter 
of a wagon wheel, height of a fence, door, or window 
of a house, or any other object which you can read- 
ily see or discover through your glass. The size of 
such familiar objects you can readily calculate, or 
perhaps may know with approximate exactness. 

Having fixed in your mind the size or altitude of 
these different objects, you can readily apply the rule 
of measurement above indicated by the cross-hairs 
in your glass, to the distance between you and the 
object sought. To illustrate, suppose in your sur- 
veys at a distance you observe an object and desire 
to ascertain how far it is ofi^. Take for instance, a 
man ; you will see his head or face, which is about 
say 9 inches in length, perpendicular. You will then 
examine the object through your glass, at rest, by 



37 

ranging hair No. 1 at the upper edge or side of the 
head, and ascertain where hair No. 2 strikes. If at 
the chin or lower part, your hairs separate just 9 
inches. Hence, according to the rule, and by refer- 
ence to the table above mentioned, the object is 60 
rods distant, for at this distance, the lines of these 
two hairs separate on striking the object exactly 9 
inches. 

Again, suppose these two cross-hairs covers but 
one half of the size of the man's head, which is 4^ 
inches, then, of course, your object is 30 rods off. Or 
in case the hairs should separate twice the length of 
the head, which you can easily judge, then, as a con- 
sequence, the hairs separate 18 inches, and the dis- 
tance would be 120 rods. 

Take, also, the head of a horse as a representation. 
You will find on examination that all horses' heads 
average about the same length, and will not vary an 
inch from two feet in vertical size. 'By applying the 
rule as last suggested to this case, the following will 
be the result: If the cross-hairs just take in the 
head, which is 24 inches, the animal is exactly 160 
rods, or half a mile off. So, again, if the cross-hairs 
covers one half of the size of the head, which is 12 
inches, the object is 80 rods, or a quarter of a mile 
distant. Or in case the separation of the hairs should 
appear twice the length of the head, or 48 inches, 
the object would be 320 rods off, or just one mile. 
The same rule is equally applicable to longer dis- 



38 

tances, as 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 miles, or any required dis- 
tance within the random or range of your piece, and 
at which the objects can be clearly and distinctly 
seen through the glass. 

Imagine yourself at a fort on the beach of the 
ocean, and you discover an enemy's vessel or " man 
of war" at a distance at sea, and your sole object is 
to strike her thejirst shot. Knowing the elevation 
of your cannon for each interval of space within its 
range, the next and all important fact, to be deter- 
mined, is, the distance. You will then, through your 
glass, examine some object on board of the ship, the 
size or altitude of which is familiar to you, such, for 
instance, as a man, it may be a sailor or soldier, a 
horse, sail, mast, smoke-pipe, or other thing observa- 
ble on board. Take the man, for instance, who is 
about six feet in height, and you will discover, in 
case the line of the cross-hairs range one at the top 
of his head and the other at his feet, that the hairs 
separate just six feet, and the distance is 480 rods, or 
1|- miles. Should the hairs show twice the height of 
the man, or 12 feet, the distance w^ould be 960 rods, 
or 3 miles. So also in case they show but one hall 
of the man's altitude, 3 feet, the distance would be 
240 rods. The result would be, you would strike 
this ship every shot, if within the reach of your gun, 
and you get the corresponding elevation. 

From these illustrations the application of the rules 
and principles herein inculcated, appears at once easy 



39 



iiiui simple, and with proper drill and practice in this 
respect, great certainty, precision and accuracy may 
be attained. 

It should be observed, as before intimated, that for 
long distances the lenses in the telescope should be 
more powerful, and the diameter of the tube about 
one inch, in order to afford a larger field of vision, 
and the cross-hairs should be black, so that the lines 
of them can be more distinctly traced on the object, 
and as fine as possible, so that the enlargement of 
them by the magnifying powder of the glass will ob- 
scure the object as little as practicable. Besides, the 
more delicate the hairs, the more accurate and mi- 
nute will be the measurement of distant objects. 

Again, in cases where it is not convenient or prac- 
ticable to attach the telescope to the piece as a sight, 
it may be used as a field glass, or as an optical locom- 
eter, (a measurer of space or distance by the glass,) 
separately, with equal advantage. If used for this 
purjDose only^ but two parallel cross-hairs would be 
necessary. 

As a matter of convenience, it would be well to so 
arrange the cross-hairs, that the spaces between them 
should be one inch as they separate on the object at 
10 rods distant. It would at 20 rods be 2 inches, at 
30 rods, 3 inches, and so on at the same ratio for 
every 10 rods. By this arrangement the luminous 
spacebetweeu the lines of the hairs would be increased 
one inch for every ten rods, and as seen above, the nu- 



40 

meral figures rej)resenting the space between the 
hairs in inches, corresponds with that of the distance 
it measures in rods. This assimilation of figures 
would enable you the more readily to remember the 
perpendicular mensuration of the space between the 
horizontal parallel hairs, w^hich correspond to and 
represent, the space or distance they measure hori- 
zontally, viz., 1 inch, 10 rods : 2 inches, 20 rods : 3 
inches, »30 rods : 4 inches, 40 rods, <fec. In other 
words, to render it more simple, multiply the dis- 
tance between the hairs in inches by 10, and the 
product will be the distance measured in rods. 

It should also be remarked, what, doubtless, has 
already occurred to the reader, that by the arrange- 
ment of the cross-hairs in this close proximity to 
each other, he will be enabled to make a more accu- 
rate and exact measurement of the height of distant 
objects through the glass than otherwise, much, of 
course, depending upon the fine and subtle texture of 
the cross-lines. 

We deem the matters treated of in this article of 
so much moment, that we would recommend to every 
gunner the importance K.i continued and unremitted 
practice until he familiarizes himself with the rules 
and regulations herein prescribed, and their applica- 
tion to the subject, and their fitness for the objects 
aiul purposes designed. 



41 



ARTICLE 5. 

Practical observations — General use of the Telescope 

as a distance glass — As applicable to 

Artillery, Rifle Batteries, <jtc. 

From the sentiments already expressed upon the 
various subjects indicated, many useful and impor- 
tant lessons may be derived. There is, perhaps, no 
principle in the science of gunnery which is so little 
understood or practiced as the art of acquiring accu- 
rate elevation, ra7ige, and distance. Without a thor- 
ough knowledge of these pre-requisites no person 
can be said to "be a good gunner, an effective artiller- 
ist, or an expert sharp-shooter. 

In all the various departments of military opera- 
tions there is no branch of the public service, which 
contributes to advantage and victory so much as the 
efficient use of ordnance and fire-arms. The most 
important feature in gunnery to insure success is, to 
know the distance to the object which you wish to strike. 
In the absence of this, all must be the result of mere 
conjecture or accident. All other elements may be 
more readily understood or easily acquired. 

We claim to have solved this one great mystery, 
and to have overcome what heretofore seemed to be 
a^ insurmountable difficulty. If we have succeeded, 
one of the prominent objects of our task will have 



42 

been accomplislied. But the field of our observa- 
tions, for practical purposes, should not be thus cir- 
cumscribed. We hold it to be the imperative duty 
of every citizen and patriot^ to contribute both his 
mental and physical energies to aid his country in 
this, her hour of peril, to sustain the integrity of the 
American Union — to subjugate those in rebellion, 
and to mete out to all traitors their merited doom. 
In a word, the whole power of the general govern- 
ment should be exerted for the accomplishment of 
this object. "We are digressing, but a sense of true 
patriotism is our only apology. 

In the foregoing pages we have treated the tele- 
scope principally as a sight for rifle shooting, meas- 
uring distances, (fee. Its capacity for usefulness in 
the army is not among the least of its claims to su- 
periority. The natural vision is short, coufined and 
obscure, and needs some artificial auxiliary to extend 
its optical power to more distant objects. The tele- 
scope, or field glass, is intended to supply this defect. 
It is valuable not only as a field glass, but as a loconi- 
eter, when arranged for that purpose, and in the man- 
ner hereinbefore described. 

The observations we have made touching the use 
of the telescope as a sight to a rifle for the sharp- 
shooter, and in enabling him to sight his gun to get 
elevation, and to measure distances, apply with equal 
force to the effective v/orking of artillery and ihQ 
rifle battery. SSlh.y not attach it as a siglit to the 



43 

centre barrel of the rifle battery ? By this means 
the gunner could more readily and clearly see dis- 
sant objects, 7neas^ire his distance with more accuracy, 
j>'et his elevation more easily, and his shots would 
thereby be far more effective. And even so with ar- 
tillery. But if this is impracticable, then certainly 
its use would be equally apparent as a field glass and 
a locometer. 

For example, suppose you observe at a distance a 
body of Rebel infantry or cavalry, and you wish to 
lire your artillery among them with certain effect. 
Knowing your elevation for all distances, the first fact 
zo be ascertained is the distance intervening between 
you and the object. Having one of these instruments 
in your hand, you will, at once, by observation 
through it, examine the apparent objects before you, 
selecting out such an one, as a man, horse, &c., the 
size or height of which you know, and which just fills 
the open space between your cross-hairs, and in case 
it is a man six feet high^ the distance would be just 
\^ miles. Therefore by elevating your piece to the 
1\ mile range, your shot would certainly not be with- 
out effect. 

Sj, this would be equally true in case your mark 
was the enemy's war-vessel, gun boat, fort, fortiiica- 
tions, or other public works. 

So icith tJie YvfiQ battery. How important and ne- 
cessary then is it that you know your elevation und 
distance, if yo-i would strike your object the first, as 



44 

well as every successive shot. In this instance, it wonld 
seem to be the more indispensable, for if you miss 
your object one shot, the whole twenty -five cotempo- 
raneous shots are lost; whereas, on the contrary, the 
whole would take effect, and hence this battery would 
be a most destructive engine of warfare. Inasmuch 
as, with a proper knowledge of elevation and distance, 
this piece would throw twenty-five effective shots at 
every discharge, which are made in quick succession, 
at the rate of from 8 to 12 per minute. 

We have thus far adverted to the telescope as an 
instrument of great power and usefulness, as con- 
nected with a subject of greater magnitude, viz., the 
army and navy. 

To the sportsman this instrument is also impor- 
tant and interesting, but, perhaps, in a less commen- 
surate degree. Before the unerring aim of the hun- 
ter, peering through the bright and clear vision of 
his telescope, his game, however small, will scarcely 
hope to escape the fatal shot. 

The rules we have defined as to the uses and pur- 
poses to which this instrument can be applied, may 
be appropriated for the benefit of the every day man 
in his out-door sports. It may be, you are roaming 
through the fields and forests on a hunting expedition, 
and your eye catches at a distance a crow or a hawk. 
You are ruminating in your mind, " if I miss thii 
bii;d the first shot, he is off. How can I engineer to . 
hit him ? I know my elevation, now if I could only 



45 



know tlie distance, I'm all right. How can I ascer- 
tain this ? Must I guess at it, and let it go at that ?'* 

Our response to this last interrogation is, no. Let 
us see if we can enlighten you on this subject. 

The vertical size of the bird is say 6 inches. I 
look at it and apply my rule of measurement by the 
cross-hairs, and find that their space of separation 
just covers his body, and hence he is exactly 40 rods 
distant. I fire at him, ranging through my 4th hair, 
(being my 40 rod elevation,) and down comes the 
game, doomed to certain death. And so of any 
other game or object where the distance is unknown. 

The more enlarged views. a person has upon this 
subject, the more important and useful does it ap 
pear. The more reflection the writer has given, the 
more is impressed upon his mind, the necessity of 
drill'mg every officer and private in the army in the 
theory and art of gunnery, with respect to getting 
range, acquiring elevation, and ascertaining distances, 
under the guidance of the rules and principles herein 
promulgated, as much or more than in any other 
branch of military tactics. For, certainly, without 
this, all would be error, chance, uncertainty. 

All shooting or firing of projectiles must of neces- 
sity be experimental and ' without eftect, except by 
accident, where the distance is unknovm. On the 
contrary, knowing this all-important fact, or having 
in your possession the means of ascertaining it at once, 
you are fully ar7ned and equipped, ready for any and 



46 



every emergency, and amply prepared to shoot down 
your traitorous foe with unerring certainty. 

By a practical knowledge of the truths here re- 
vealed universally disseminated throughout the whole 
army, all chance and fortuitous shots would be avoided, 
and thereby much time, labor, and ammunition, 
would be saved, which vfould furnish an item of no 
small magnitude in economy to the government. 

To our friend, the sharp-shooter, with his telescopic 
rifle, we desire to impart a little familiar, friendly, 
parting advice. You are about (if you have not 
already done so,) to embark in a new enterprise ; to 
explore a new field of operations ; to seek what the 
wild Indian would most desire, a 7ieio hunting ground. 
You have entered the United States army in defence 
of your country in this, the darkest era in her his- 
tory. For this volunteering act of patriotism, your 
children, and your chidren's children, will rise up 
and call you blessed. Future history will record 
your name as one of the sharp-shooter's on the side 
of the Union in the great Southern rehellioti of 1861. 
Let us exhort you in language analagous to that of 
revolutionary times: "I know not what course 
others may take, but as for me, give me liberty or 
give me death." " Live or die, sink or swim, survive 
or perish, I am for " the American U'/iion. 

But to the subject. You are just entering the 
arena of rebel hmiting and traitor shooting. A novel 
kind of gaming for this age and country. But having 



47 



enlisted in this cause, it becomes you to exert all the 
means in your power, not only for self-preservation, 
but also for the immediate suppression of this infa- 
mous rebellion. For this purpose always be vigilant, 
that your rifle, telescope, and other implements be- 
longing therewith, are as perfect as possible and in 
order. Familiarize yourself, hy practice, with your 
gun and telescope, in respect to fall of hall ^ elevatio7i 
and distance. Should you be an officer, see to it, that 
every private in your company is thoroughly drilled 
in the use of the rifle, and especially of this instru- 
ment. For with a perfect knowledge of these, success 
will attend you, and your shots will be certain and 
effective. 

Whatever may be the object aimed at, whether it 
be a rebel gunner or officer whom you wish to pick 
off, with proper coolness and care, observing the rules 
of elevation and of ascertaini7ig the distance^ you c«?i- 
not fail to discharge the fatal shot. By this means 
you will have successfully accomplished the great end 
of your mission. 

In COD elusion permit us to say that we have en- 
deavored thus briefly to present our subject in a man- 
ner so plain, and with illustrations so simple, that 
any person of ordinary understanding can readily 
comprehend it. We have aimed to be entirely prac- 
tical. 

If we have succeeded in afl'ording any new light 
or knowledge in the art and theory of gunnery, or 



48 



any important information upon the practical and 
effective use of fire-arms, or in enlisting more interest 
in, or inaugurating a new impulse in relation thereto, 
we shall be content, and our labor not in vain. 

We therefore submit our work in this crude form 
to the candid judgment and patronage of the public. 







ffiARY OF CONGRESS 



020 237 102 4 



